When the weather is warm and you’re itching to spend time outdoors, do you instantly think to protect yourself from poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac? Unfortunately most people don’t know how to protect themselves from these poison plants of summer – much less, how to distinguish them from safe ones. These plants, which contain oil named Urushiol, cause skin irritation within 12 -72 hours after contact. Although rashes rarely lead to serious or life-threatening illness, severe reactions – which include fever, swelling, blistering, and crusting skin – require urgent medical care.

Without treatment, mild rashes can clear within a few weeks. Nonetheless, the uncontrollable itching, minor swelling, and redness that come with rashes can feel unbearable.

Use the following tips for instant relief from your symptoms:

Press a cold compress on the infected area

Take an oatmeal bath

Apply anti-itch creams, lotions, or gels to the affected area

If you or someone you know has been exposed to poison ivy, oak, or sumac, you don’t have to suffer with pain & discomfort. Walk in to AFC Urgent Care Phoenixville to be seen by a board-certified physician 7 days a week with no appointment necessary. We also accept most insurance plans and offer low rates for our self-pay patients.